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Kidney transplant recipient detained by ICE, denied anti-rejection medication for weeks

Feb 19, 2026 · Rochester, MN, Dominican Republic

Kidney transplant recipient detained by ICE, denied anti-rejection medication for weeks

Javier Abreu-Vasquez (also referred to as Javier Ubreu), a 38-year-old kidney transplant recipient from the Dominican Republic with legal status in the U.S., was arrested by ICE agents in Rochester, Minnesota on February 5 while delivering groceries for his church's mutual aid group after officers rammed his car and broke a window. He was transferred to a facility in El Paso, Texas, where he faced delays and reportedly incorrect dosages of the immunosuppressant medication needed to prevent rejection of his donated kidney. His wife and Minnesota state Rep. Kim Hicks attempted to deliver his medication to federal authorities but were initially turned away. After intervention from Senator Tina Smith's office and Mayo Clinic physicians, he gained access to medication, and a federal judge ordered his release on bond. His attorney confirmed he has no prior criminal convictions. He returned home to Rochester on February 19 after roughly two weeks in custody, with next steps in his immigration case unclear.

Timeline

Feb 19, 2026Returned home to Rochester, Minnesota
Feb 18, 2026Released on bond after two weeks in custody, according to another report
Feb 13, 2026Federal judge ordered his release on bond following intervention by Senator Tina Smith's office and Mayo Clinic physicians
Feb 6, 2026Wife and state Rep. Kim Hicks attempted to deliver his transplant medication; federal authorities denied access
Feb 6, 2026Transferred to ICE facility in El Paso, Texas without required immunosuppressant medication
Feb 5, 2026Detained by ICE agents in Rochester, Minnesota while delivering groceries; agents rammed his car

Sources

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